R.I. House Judiciary Chairwoman Ajello seeking reelection

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - House Judiciary Committee Chairwoman Edith Ajello says she's running for reelection in 2014, despite reports that she was retiring because of health issues.

By News staff

PROVIDENCE, R.I. - House Judiciary Committee Chairwoman Edith Ajello says she's running for reelection in 2014, despite reports that she was retiring because of health issues.

The Providence Democrat, who was first elected in 1992 and represents the city's wealthy East Side, specifically refuted claims made by fellow state Rep. Michael W. Chippendale, R-Foster, in a post for RIgunblog.com, a local pro-gun website.

"Contrary to an item in RIgunblog.com that was brought to my attention today, I fully intend to be a candidate once again in 2014," Ajello said in a statement. "This blog post is the first I have heard of any health reasons or issues that could cause me to voluntarily leave office."

She continued: "I appreciate Rep. Chippendale's concern for my well-being, and wonder at the source of misinformation about my health. It is an honor and a privilege to serve my constituents, and I will be asking for their support again next year."

Chippendale's blog post was focused on possible gun control-related legislation in the upcoming General Assembly session.

In the post, he wrote about what a possible opening in the House Judiciary Commitee leadership -- where most gun control-related bills are assigned -- might mean for pro-gun supporters.

"This next session will be the last year that Edith Ajello will be in office. She has announced that she is retiring due to health reasons. While I am never pleased to see anyone have to dramatically alter their lives because of health reasons, I will shed no tear for the opening in the Judiciary Committee for a Chairman. However - and this is important, we have to be very cautious about jumping out of the pan, and into the fire.

"There is one individual on the Judiciary Committee who, if appointed by Fox to replace Ajello, will be FAR more dangerous than Ajello. This is a bridge we will need to cross when and if it presents itself."